Arizona’s infant mortality rate rose by 11% last year, new analysis says – By Stephanie Innes (Arizona Republic) / Nov 22, 2023
Arizona’s infant mortality rate has surpassed the U.S. level for the first time in at least a decade, signaling a problem that experts say could be improved with regular prenatal care and safer sleep environments.
The 11% increase in the state’s infant mortality rate was a “substantial finding” in the Arizona Child Fatality Review Program’s 30th annual report, said Dr. Mary Ellen Rimsza, a pediatrician and chair of the state’s child fatality review program.
“It is disturbing if you look at the data. Although the national infant mortality rate went up, ours went up much more than the national,” said Rimsza, who is also medical director of the child fatality program for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Arizona chapter. “There are certain racial and ethnic groups where there are unfortunately disparities and increased risk for infant mortality.”
